[FordMan59]

I've got a freon leak at one of the spring lock connectors on my '88 Escort GL and need to get the connection apart so I can replace the O rings. I've got the tool that is supposed to release the spring and it appears to be releasing the spring, but I can't get the connection apart. I was wondering if anyone else ever ran into this problem and how they over came it. An help or suggestions appreciated.

 

[Cuda_jim]

They can be a tough, it's usually dirt and dry o'rings. Try using some lube then attach the tool...pull hard or shock it with something soft like a plastic handled screwdriver (hide the BFH) haha

 

[FordMan59]

I've pulled as hard as I can and there's even a 90* bend in the metal part of the hose so I've tried prying it loose using a piece of wood and a flat piece of metal. I can twist the connection right to left, but it just won't pull out. I'll try hitting the connection with a screwdriver handle to see if that helps any, but I'm still open for suggestions.

 

[Canuck623]

If you can twist it then the spring is not released yet. There are several different size tools for that job. Make sure you are using the right one. If you have access to compressesd air blow all around the fitting inside where the spring is. All it takes is a small amount of dirt to stop the tool from moving the spring back. Some of those fittings require real determination.

 

[FordMan59]

If you can twist it then the spring is not released yet. There are several different size tools for that job. Make sure you are using the right one. If you have access to compressesd air blow all around the fitting inside where the spring is. All it takes is a small amount of dirt to stop the tool from moving the spring back. Some of those fittings require real determination.

I have a tool with all the sizes and the only one that will fit in the opening is the 5/8", plus I have a set of the plastic ones and the 5/8" is the only one of them that will fit inside the spring connector. I do have an air compressor I will try blowing it out good either tomorrow or Monday. Keep the ideas coming. Tapping the fitting didn't do any good as far as loosening it up. I don't understand why they didn't just use a threaded fitting like they use on the compressor. I guess they figure that's too damn simple and that any idiot can figure it out. The bad thing is if I get this one repaired, when I go to visit my parents I need to repair a leak on my dad's '94 Escort. Dad's 81 years old and mom is 78 so they need their a/c working during the hot summer months. I sure hope their problem is something besides one of the spring lock connectors.

 

[electro]

Spring lock fittings are an acquired taste. I'll take em any day.
You just have a hard one.
I also have had good luck with compressed air. Use you favorite penetrating oil and "push" it into the joint with air pressure. If you need to, get a sharp pick and pull the garter spring out of the fitting. That will give you more room to get the penetrating oil in. You will need to source a new spring however.

 

[FordMan59]

I still haven't got this connection apart, but the weather has been so unpredictable, sun shine for a while then a shower will come through so I haven't worked with it much. I sprayed the connection down with WD-40 and worked with it afterwards, but still no progress.

 

[oldtimer35]

You may not have been getting the tool all the way into the coupler. Sometimes they seem to be in, but not far enough to release the spring lock. The tool should come right up to the shoulder of the coupler. With it in this position, rotate either the tool or the line while holding pressure against the coupler, then see if it will pull out. I know I have run into more than a few of these, they can be very stubborn.

 

[electro]

The ones at the fire wall are fun. Are we talking about the accumulator at the fire wall?

 

[Skyhawk]

Ah, electro the evaporator core is generally at the firewall, or inside the cabin behind the firewall. Try spraying the springlocks with penetraiting oil (not WD 40) and let them sit overnight. The springs and the groove they set in get corroded and do not want to "spread" open. Plan on replacing the ones you remove. They can be purchased as part of a kit, "O" rings, locksprings, and PAG oil, for various makes and model years at most of the major auto parts stores. You can dig them out, with a pick, of the connection but this should be a last ditch effort. The system will have to be vacuumed before it is recharged in order to remove any moisture in the system.